Wayanad travel guide
Things to do near Sulthan Bathery
Caves, peaks, lakes, waterfalls and wildlife. Le Villagio is an easy base for exploring the best of Wayanad.
Explore Wayanad
Our favourite day trips
Distances are by road from Le Villagio. Our reception can arrange a taxi and suggest the best route for the day.
Edakkal Caves
11 km · about 25 min drive
Climb to rock shelters on Ambukuthi Mala to see carvings thousands of years old, and enjoy wide views over the hills. Go early: the climb is steep and entry is limited.
Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary
17 km · about 30 min drive
Part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. Morning jeep safaris give you a chance to see elephants, deer, gaur and, with luck, a tiger.
Jain Temple, Sulthan Bathery
2 km · about 5 min drive
A granite temple from the 13th century, later used as an ammunition store by Tipu Sultan, which gave the town its name.
Chembra Peak
37 km · about 1 hr 30 min drive
Wayanad’s highest peak, famous for its heart-shaped lake. Check with the forest department for current trekking permits before you go.
Banasura Sagar Dam
43 km · about 1 hr 20 min drive
A huge earth dam with islands scattered across the reservoir. Speed-boat rides and hill views make it a favourite for families.
Pookode Lake
35 km · about 1 hr 10 min drive
A calm freshwater lake surrounded by forest, with pedal boats and a walking path. Easy to combine with a drive through the Thamarassery ghat viewpoint.
Soochipara Falls
38 km · about 1 hr 25 min drive
A three-tier waterfall reached by a short forest walk. Best after the monsoon, from August to December.
Kuruva Island
41 km · about 1 hr 10 min drive
River islands crossed by bamboo raft, with quiet forest trails. Opening depends on the season and water levels.
Phantom Rock
10 km · about 20 min drive
A skull-shaped rock formation near Ambalavayal, often visited on the way to Edakkal Caves.
Karapuzha Dam
19 km · about 35 min drive
Landscaped gardens and adventure activities beside a wide reservoir, good for an easy afternoon.
When to visit
Wayanad through the year
October to February
Cool, clear days and misty mornings. The best time for treks, caves and sightseeing.
March to May
Warm afternoons, ideal for the pool and early-morning safaris.
June to September
Monsoon season. Lush green hills and full waterfalls, with some trails closed after heavy rain.
Getting here
How to reach Le Villagio
By air
Calicut International Airport
99 km · about 3 hours by road. Kannur International Airport is 104 km away.
By train
Kozhikode Railway Station
95 km · about 3.5 hours by road
By road
Sulthan Bathery bus stand
2 km · about 5 minutes, pickup on request
Keep exploring
More at Le Villagio
Make Le Villagio your Wayanad base
Book direct for the best rate, and ask our team to plan your day trips.